Experience the highlights of Mallorca with this week-long travel plan

While many itineraries start in Palma, I prefer to begin my journey in the more tranquil town of Sóller.

Just a 35-minute drive from the airport, Sóller embodies everything I love: a relaxed vibe, a beautifully preserved historic square where families and friends gather to chat late into the evening, and charming cobblestone streets filled with restaurants and traditional shops.

I adore the warm-hued buildings, the constant stunning views of the Serra de Tramuntana, and the ability to watch the sunset from this side of the island. It’s the ideal way to start my Mallorca adventure. We’ll make this our base for much of the trip, as it offers convenient access to Palma and the region’s beautiful beaches and villages.

Best time to visit: Mallorca is delightful all year long. Although many coastal resorts close in winter, it's an excellent time for hiking in the Serra de Tramuntana and Serra de Llevant or enjoying cozy stays at rural farms. Most travelers find spring and autumn to be the sweetest seasons due to the mild weather and various activities available, but I personally prefer summer when the island is lively and perfect for sun-lovers like me.

Getting from the airport: If your destination is Palma, taxis and the EMT A1 bus, which operates every 15 minutes during the day and every 30 minutes at night, are both great choices. In the summer, AEROTIB buses offer direct services to popular resorts like Alcúdia, Can Picafort, and Cala Bona.

Getting around: The island's public transport system is quite efficient. Palma has excellent bus and taxi connections, and TIB buses link the capital with key tourist spots across the island. However, for the itinerary I’ve planned, a car is essential. It’s the most convenient way to discover Mallorca's charming villages and hidden beaches, which are often only reachable by car.

What to bring: Light and comfortable clothing is ideal for summer. Choose breathable fabrics to stay cool during the day, and pack a few nicer outfits for dining out. Locals typically dress up for meals (think casual chic rather than overly formal), so you won't see many diners in beach attire—it's generally not acceptable. The west coast may see occasional rain even in summer, so a lightweight rain jacket is a wise addition. Also, consider water shoes, as many of Mallorca's beaches have rocky areas, helping to protect your feet from cuts and scrapes.

Day 1: Begin your adventure in Sóller

How to enjoy the day: Check into your hotel, and if you have a rental car, consider parking it in the town's underground public lot for just €6 per day. Finding parking on the narrow streets can be quite challenging, and most hotels lack dedicated parking spaces.

After settling in, take a moment to relax at the tree-lined Plaça de la Constitució and have lunch at one of the nearby cafes. Don’t miss the stunning Sant Bartomeu cathedral, renowned for its impressive Modernist facade and breathtaking altarpiece. Then, stroll over to Carrer de sa Lluna, where you'll discover charming shops selling Mallorcan leather shoes and traditional home goods, such as hand-stitched floral linens and antique-style tablecloths—perfect souvenirs from your trip.

Dinner: Be aware that Sóller has no late-night bars, and dinner service typically ends by 10:30pm, which is unusual for Spain. Aim to head out by 8pm to avoid feeling rushed. Some of my favorite dining spots, like Ca'n Pintxo, are hidden down side streets. Request a table on the candlelit terrace, where you can savor dishes like the catch of the day, beautifully served as a silky ceviche marinated in citrus and passion fruit juices.

Searching for souvenirs? Be sure to explore Palma de Mallorca's finest independent shops

Day 2: Explore Port de Sóller

Morning: Join the cheerful crowd of locals picking up their ensaimadas (twisted flaky pastries dusted with powdered sugar and sometimes filled with jam) from Horno San Cristo. Mallorca is famous for its ensaimadas, which make a delightful pairing with a strong espresso.

How to enjoy the day: Head to the beach! Port de Sóller is just a 10-minute drive away, or you can hop on the charming wooden tram for a fun ride. There are two beaches: the main Port de Sóller beach and Platja d’en Repic. Both offer calm, clear waters and lifeguards on duty. You can rent sun loungers, lockers, and parasols for a flat daily rate, and you’ll find plenty of restaurants and bars nearby. I enjoy lunch at Patiki Beach, but I often bring my own picnic with bread, cheese, and chorizo from the supermarket. Plus, there are fruit vendors ready to slice up dragon fruit or crack open a coconut whenever you’re in the mood.

Dinner: Relish a breathtaking sunset at the beach before heading to Ses Oliveres for a delectable seafood dinner paired with sparkling wine and magnificent views of the bay.

Check out our selection of Mallorca's finest beaches

Day 3: Discover Fornalutx, Sa Calobra, and Pollença

Morning: Begin your day with a picturesque 15-minute drive to Fornalutx, frequently regarded as one of Spain's most enchanting villages. The journey is delightful, winding through lush landscapes. Enjoy breakfast at Cafè Sa Plaça in the village center, then wander through the charming, narrow streets, taking in the lovely window boxes that decorate each home. Don’t forget to stop by the charmingly traditional Panaderia de Fornalutx to grab some authentic Mallorcan pastries for a sweet snack on your way to the next adventure.

How to spend the day: Continue along the MA-10 highway and prepare yourself for the thrilling (and somewhat nerve-wracking) drive to Sa Calobra beach. This stretch of the MA-10 is renowned for its hairpin turns and cliffside roads. I wasn’t warned it’s dubbed 'the wildest road on the island,' so be ready for an adventure. The views are breathtaking (take your time), and Sa Calobra is truly spectacular. The water is so clear that you can see fish swimming even without a snorkel. Try to arrive by mid-morning to claim a spot and unwind on the pebble beach, or take a short hike to Torrent de Pareis gorge.

Evening: Conclude your day in Pollença, a quintessential Balearic town just an hour’s drive away, with streets adorned with wisteria that once enchanted Agatha Christie. As evening falls, the town’s restaurants and bars come alive, with families gathering in the squares to enjoy ice cream and wine. Savor a meal at Amazo, a cozy eatery serving hearty South American and Spanish dishes. For an easier drive back to Sóller, opt for the flatter and more direct MA-13 highway.

Day 4: Explore Deià and Valldemossa

Morning: If you've ever browsed Mallorca on Instagram, you've likely come across Deià. This picturesque and slightly upscale village is renowned for its artistic atmosphere, breathtaking views, and celebrity vacation homes. Just a 20-minute drive from Sóller, begin your visit at the hilltop cemetery where poet Robert Graves is buried, offering stunning views over the village. Then head to De Moniö for coffee at this minimalist vegetarian café, which also features handmade ceramics—ideal for souvenirs. Afterward, drive down to Cala Deià for a refreshing swim and an early lunch at Ca's Patró March, a restaurant with a lovely view of the water.

How to spend the day: Take a 15-minute drive to Valldemossa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can wander the winding streets and visit Real Cartuja de Valldemossa, a museum dedicated to composer Frédéric Chopin and writer George Sand. This historic building, an old monastery and former royal residence, dates back to 1310. Regardless of your lunch plans, make La Posada your priority, where you can enjoy wood-fired steaks or fresh salads paired with wine on the outdoor terrace overlooking Valldemossa’s sea of terracotta rooftops and olive groves.

Evening: As the day winds down, head back to Sóller for your final evening and treat yourself to dinner at C'an Llimona, a beautiful family-run Italian restaurant that prides itself on high-quality ingredients. Their fresh pasta, made daily, is exceptional.

Day 5: Discover Palma

Morning: Before departing from Sóller to Palma, make a stop at Ecovinyassa, a beautiful citrus orchard just a 10-minute drive away, where the air is infused with the scents of oranges and lemons. They offer tours on weekdays (excluding Tuesdays) starting at 10am, allowing you to sample freshly picked fruits, wander the stunning grounds, and enjoy fresh juice and a light snack beneath the shade of the citrus trees—a delightful way to spend your morning.

How to spend the day: Head to Palma, the lively, art-filled capital of Mallorca. I enjoy staying in Santa Catalina, a neighborhood bursting with creativity, featuring live music, dog-friendly bars, and sweet treats at every turn. After checking into your hotel, explore the historic Old Town, visiting the breathtaking La Seu Cathedral and browsing chic stores like Rialto Living and La Pecera, along with smaller shops like Mimbrería Vidal for that unique 'oh, this? I found it in Mallorca' item.

Dinner: Take a seat near the open kitchen at Vandal in Santa Catalina, where the menu resembles a culinary map of the world, showcasing influences from South America, Asia, and Europe. It’s lively, making it less suitable for an intimate meal, but it’s a lot of fun. Don’t miss the deliciously juicy beef bao and the burrata paired with fried zucchini flowers. Afterwards, hunt for the elusive jazz-infused speakeasy Door 13. A password is required for entry, typically shared on their social media.

Looking for more information? Check out our guide for first-timers in Palma

Day 6: Discover Cala Pi and Santanyí

Morning: Rise early, pick up some snacks and fresh fruit from a nearby supermarket (Spanish supermarkets are top-notch) and prepare for another delightful beach day.

How to spend the day: Begin your day at Cala Pi, just a 45-minute drive from Palma. This traditional Mallorcan beach captured my heart—serene and secluded (at least in the morning) with no amenities. Remember to bring towels, snorkels, and snacks (hence the supermarket stop). Be aware that reaching the beach involves navigating some steep stairs. In the afternoon, consider a 30-minute drive to the stunning, Caribbean-like Platja des Trenc or a 40-minute trip to Santanyí, a charming, laid-back town that feels refreshingly gentle. Here, you’ll find another lovely beach and a market on Wednesdays and Saturdays until 2pm.

Dinner: Stay in Santanyí to enjoy its beauty during the golden hour. Savor fresh paella at one of the casual beach clubs for dinner or indulge in truffle pasta in the cozy courtyard of Es Cantonet. It’s about a 45-minute drive back to Palma afterward.

Day 7: Explore Palma

Morning: Make sure to visit the Santa Catalina market before you leave. It offers a vast selection of fresh produce, along with local honey, marmalade, delectable hams, and Mallorcan wines to take home. While you’re there, stop by Can Frau for an early tapas lunch. It's a fantastic spot for solo dining with its long counter wrapping around the bar, and they serve some of the best paella in Palma.

How to spend the day: Continue to wander Palma's charming neighborhoods or enjoy a leisurely beach day at Portixol, a former fishing village turned trendy coastal suburb of Palma. For a unique experience, visit one of Mallorca's glassmaking shops or warehouses. The island has a rich tradition in glassmaking, with its oldest brand, Gordiola Glass Company, established in 1719. While there’s a shop in Palma, the workshop in Algaida is far more exciting. You can observe the craft of handblown glassmaking in the museum—the €8 entry fee is well worth it—and browse a variety of products.

Dinner: In Palma, visit La Rosa Vermuteria and Colmado, a delightful vermouth bar featuring friendly bartenders and an excellent selection of vermouth, beer, and wine. Enjoy a cheese platter for dinner before heading to the airport. Adios!

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